Ex-DEA agent Bongiovanni acquitted on 1 bribery charge

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) – Former DEA agent Joseph Bongiovanni, who is accused of corruption, was acquitted on one of the bribery counts against him by Federal Judge Lawrence Vilardo.

In April 2024, Bongiovanni was found guilty on two charges, including obstruction of justice and making false statements. The jury failed to reach a verdict on 12 of the 15 counts against him, including charges of conspiracy, accepting bribes and drug-related offenses.

In his ruling, Vilardo said the original testimony never made it clear why payments — if any — were made, including if it was bribery. He also said there is no evidence, “circumstantial or otherwise.”

The decision comes just over a week before Bongiovanni’s retrial is scheduled.

Bongiovanni was originally charged with accepting over $250,000 in bribes from who the prosecution referred to as “Italian organized crime members,” who allegedly worked with the ex-DEA agent to derail investigations into themselves.

Prosecutors also allege Bongiovanni worked closely with co-defendant Peter Gerace, the owner of Pharoah’s Gentleman’s Club, saying the site was used for drugs and sex trafficking.

Marlee Tuskes is an award-winning anchor and reporter who has been part of the News 4 team since 2019. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter.